elcome to a side of Japan few travelers ever get to see. Your journey begins in the hidden mountain village of Besshi, a breathtakingly beautiful community tucked away in Niyodogawa. Beautiful in every season, with weeping cherry blossoms in spring, cascading water in the gorge in summer, fiery red foliage in autumn and the amazing procession of festival goers in winter. On this tour, you will walk the very route used for the festival's sacred portable shrine procession, guiding you through the heart of the village straight to the ancient Akiba Shrine. Maybe you have seen shrines before, but this time a local guide will walk you from front to back and explain the meaning of the various intricate carvings and paintings. Learn about the shrine, the festival, and experience the true meaning held within.

Your encounter with living history continues during the afternoon as you experience the warmth of local hospitality. You will step inside the historic Oishi Residence, a traditional Japanese home, and enjoy a spectacular lunch of sawachi cuisine. This celebratory style of dining features massive, beautifully arranged platters piled high with Kochi’s local delicacies, designed to bring people together.

Your immersive day continues with a short trip down the valley, where vibrant green tea plantations cling to the sides of a dramatic river gorge. Here, you will meet the dedicated farmers who cultivate this premium tea and learn about the delicate balance between the river and steep hillsides that allows them to grow delicious tea. Ask questions and tour the fields

To wrap up your adventure, you will head to "Asunaro," a cozy tea-farmer restaurant, to unwind and reflect on your day. You will choose your favorite brew from three distinct local varieties, perfectly paired with delicate tea-infused sweets like soft, fragrant daifuku rice cakes, before parting ways with memories of an unforgettable rural escape.